Draped along the mighty Himalaya lies tiny Bhutan, cut off from the “outside” for thousands of years. Now Bhutan is opening its gorgeous vistas, peaceful farms and unique traditions to a few lucky visitors. Immerse yourself in welcoming Bhutan, known for its friendly people, stunning scenery and fascinating culture. On this independent journey, see breathtaking dzongs and monasteries, attend a local Buddhist festival and hike to sacred Taktsang (“Tiger’s Nest”) Monastery.

DAY- 1

DAY 1: PARO, BHUTAN/THIMPHU Transfer to the airport and fly to Paro. On arrival, you are met with a tashi khadda (traditional welcome), and transferred to your hotel in Thimphu. En route, stop to see the Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses, and its iron mesh suspension bridge. After settling into your hotel, visit the National Memorial Chorten, designed in the style of a classical stupa, with a pyramidal pillar crowned by a crescent moon and sun. Later, see Tashichho Dzong, a 13th-century Buddhist monastery and fort. Accommodation: Taj Tashi / Le Meridian

DAY- 2

DAY 2: THIMPHU | CAPITAL CITY See one of Bhutan’s most unique creatures today when you visit the Takin Sanctuary, a wildlife reserve set on forested slopes above the city. See the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers insight into the lifestyle, culture and artifacts of Bhutanese villages as well as life in rural households. Accommodation: Taj Tashi / Le Meridian

DAY- 3

DAY 3: PUNAKHA | TEMPLE OF THE DIVINE MADMAN After breakfast, proceed to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Drive over the Dochula Pass at an altitude of 10,200 feet, travelling through forests of pine festooned with hanging lichen. Stop to enjoy a cup of tea while taking in panoramic views. Continue to the yellow-roofed Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of the Divine Madman), built in 1499 by the cousin of Lama Drukpa Kunley; it was constructed in his honor after the lama subdued the demoness of the nearby Dochu La with his “magic thunderbolt of wisdom.” Accommodation: Uma by COMO, Punakha

DAY- 4

DAY 4: PUNAKHA | PALACES & TEMPLES Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong (the “palace of great happiness”). Situated at the confluence of two rivers, the dzong was originally built in 1637. Damaged over centuries by fires and an earthquake, it has been beautifully restored by the king. Accommodation: Uma by COMO, Punakha

DAY- 5

DAY 5: PARO | SPIRITUAL SURROUNDINGS Drive to Paro. Visit Rinpung Dzong, a monastery and fortress along a mountain river. It houses the district Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. Accommodation: Uma by COMO, Paro

DAY- 6

DAY 6: PARO | HIKE TO THE TAKTSANG (“TIGER’S NEST”) MONASTERY Hike to cliff-side Taktsang (“Tiger’s Nest”) Monastery, a sacred Himalayan Buddhist site and temple complex. After your adventure to this sacred pilgrimage site, enjoy a celebratory Champagne picnic lunch. Accommodation: Uma by COMO, Paro

DAY- 7

DAY 7: DEPART BHUTAN After breakfast an early morning transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight. Thank you for visiting Bhutan.